Weather

An all-season destination, in Manitowoc, you can experience fluffy snow in the winter, bright flowers along Mariners Trail in the spring, hot summer days perfect for th beach, and crisp leaves in the fall. Each season brings unique events and activities to experience. 

Check out the local weather forecast here to know what to wear along the coast today. 

Spring

Average high temperature: 38-58°F

The weather starts warming up in Manitowoc in April, with beautiful cherry blossoms blooming in early May each year. This makes spring a perfect time of the year to visit for those who want to see and photograph the beautiful pink and white blooms, as well as the birds returning for the warmer months. Groupings of cherry blossom trees can be found along the Manitowoc River outside City Hall, on the East Lawn in front of the Rahr-West Art Museum and at West of the Lake Gardens (pictured), which opens the weekend of Memorial Day. Birds are best found at the nature reserve on the way out to the Manitowoc Breakwater Lighthouse and at Lower Henry Schuette Park. This is also a good time to visit Manitowoc Lincoln Park Zoo. The animals are typically more active due to the warming weather that isn't yet too hot. 

Summer

Average high temperature: 72-80°F

A relaxing lakeside destination with four publicly groomed beaches, it's a no-brainer to visit Manitowoc in the summer with comfortable, sunny 70-degree days. Remember to bring your flip flops and head down to Red Arrow Park, Manitowoc's nicest and largest beach, especially during July and August, as the air and water temperatures are warm enough for a dip in Lake Michigan, or set up your umbrella at Lighthouse Park (pictured). Other outdoor attractions that make Manitowoc the perfect summer vacation spot include the Manitowoc Family Aquatic Center & Mini Golf, Mariners Trail along Lake Michigan, and West of the Lake Gardens. The S.S. Badger Lake Michigan Carferry is in full swing in the summer, and the waves on the lake are calmest during this time, making it a smooth ride for everybody. 

Fall

Average high temperature: 40-65°F

If cool, crisp evenings, low humidity, and changing colors are your jam, you'll want to visit Manitowoc in the fall. Leaves start changing color in late September and typically peak in mid to late October. This time of year is perfect for a hike at Camp Vits Park, Henry Schuette Park (pictured), or disc golf at Silver Creek Park. After you work up an appetite, wet your whistle at a cozy brewery, such as PetSkull Brewing and Craft Creek Brewing. Other go-to fall itinerary destinations include The Nook (or Black Heart Books, if you want spooky season to start early), Manitowoc Coffee, and Glaze & Paint, where you can paint your own fall decor. 

If you are planning a trip in the fall, check out the Travel Wisconsin Fall Color Report to see live updates on the color status of regions across Wisconsin. Manitowoc typically sees peak fall color in the second and third week of October. 

Winter

Average high temperature: 20-35°F

It's truly a winter wonderland in Manitowoc. The lakeshore sees several snowfalls each winter, starting in December through February, with sporadic snowfall events in March. Silver Creek Park has multiple snow hills for sledding and trails for fat tire biking and snowshoeing. If you don't have your own, snowshoes are rentable at the Senior Center, and another great place to snowshoe is at Camp Vits (pictured). An outdoor ice rink is set up at Burger Boat Park in the heart of downtown Manitowoc, or you can ice skate indoors at the Manitowoc Ice Center, where skates are rentable. Come early in the season to be dazzled by all the holiday happenings, including the popular Evergleams Off Eighth and Christmas in the Mansion.